Pfleger points to DCFS findings to support his effort to return to St. Sabina
The state agency determined that allegations Pfleger was a risk to be around kids were “unfounded.”
The Rev. Michael Pfleger had hoped the findings of a state investigation would open the door for him to return to his ministry at St. Sabina Church, but the Chicago Archdiocese said Friday that Pfleger must stay away as its own investigation into sex abuse claims continues.
In January, two brothers accused Pfleger of abusing them more than four decades ago, when they were kids.
Following the allegations, Pfleger stepped away from his duties at the Auburn Gresham church as investigations, including one conducted by the state’s Department of Child and Family Services, played out.
On Friday, Pfleger received a letter from DCFS stating its investigation determined that allegations that Pfleger was a risk to be around kids were “unfounded.”
The letter to Pfleger stated:
“After a thorough evaluation, DCFS has determined the report to be ‘unfounded.’ This means that no credible evidence of child abuse or neglect was found during this investigation and that your name will not be listed as a perpetrator of child abuse or neglect on the State Central Register. This does not necessarily mean that an incident did not occur. An incident may have occurred but the evidence did not rise to the level required to indicate for abuse or neglect as dictated by state law and DCFS administrative rule.”
The archdiocese, in a statement issued Friday, pointed out the DCFS was not investigating the brothers’ allegations.
“It is important to note that the unfounded finding does not reflect an investigation by DCFS of the recent allegations against Father Pfleger by two adult brothers and therefore should not be viewed as a judgment as to his guilt or innocence in those matters.”
“The agency was investigating risk, not allegations of abuse that occurred more than four decades ago.”
“The Independent Review Board of the archdiocese will conduct its investigation into the allegations and will communicate its findings in due course. Father Pfleger will remain away from the parish pending the outcome of that process.”
Pfleger was not available for comment Friday, but his attorney Mike Monico said the findings show DCFS doesn’t believe Pfleger to be a danger to kids and should be allowed to return to his church.
DCFS spokesman Bill McCaffrey, citing state law, couldn’t disclose details of the investigation or whether it involved locating and interviewing people who were around at the time of the alleged abuse.
“The law does not permit DCFS to investigate allegations of child abuse or neglect made by an adult victim,” he said. “DCFS can only determine whether there is a current child victim.”
More than 100 Pfleger supporters gathered outside the archdiocese’s headquarters Wednesday to call for his quick return to St. Sabina.
In a pair of social media posts that same day, Pfleger said he was innocent and called the accusations “false.”
“When this is over, which i (sic) hope is soon i (sic) will have much more to say,” Pfleger wrote. In another post, he thanked several organizations and people who’ve voiced support of the longtime St. Sabina priest. “... I pray the [Chicago] Archdiocese will quickly allow my return to Ministry.”
Pfleger’s attorneys have said the accusations were lies and the accusers brought them in hope of a payday.
Read the DCFS letter (pdf)